Letters to the editor

He’s out of touch

To the editor:

Your columnist Carl Golden claims that the “far left is out of touch with reality, just like in 1972.”

I voted in 1972 for Republican Gov. Dan Evans and Democrat George McGovern. The political reality was Vietnam, Vietnam, Vietnam, and Watergate, not the “alliterative rhythm”: “acid, amnesty and abortion” Golden claims. And, 50 years later, in 2022, the reality was abortion, gun violence, election fraud, the MAGA and COVID pandemics. The perpetual issues of “inflation, immigration and debt” Golden considers the reality of 2022 have always been convenient campaign slogans by both parties and have never decided elections.

Golden also blames President Joe Biden for having released just about everything that was locked up in Pandora’s box and expressed “serious concern about Mr. Biden’s age and cognition.” That is hitting below the belt. Donald Trump’s Churchillian oratory and wisdom and youthfulness are legendary and unmatched.

The author also stated that the nation now “teeters on defaulting on its debts for the first time in history.” Why, then, did the nation never teeter under Trump or Obama, Bush, Clinton, back to FDR? Because Trump and the Republicans had the good sense to raise the debt limit, not once, but three times. Why can’t Biden follow Trump’s lead and demand, no insist, on raising the debt limit?

Well, with some luck, we’ll be going back to the good old days, unimpeded by competency, truth and reason, and leftist interference.

Jim Behrend

Bainbridge

Memorial Day

To the editor:

As commander of American Legion Colin Hyde Post 172, I would like to take a moment to remind your readers about the true meaning of Memorial Day, an observance that carries profound significance.

Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer, a long weekend or a day off work. It is a solemn day of remembrance, a time to honor the men and women of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to this nation. It is a time to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy as a result of their bravery, dedication and patriotism.

Every life lost in defense of our country represents a son, daughter, brother, sister, father or mother – people with families, dreams and futures that were abruptly cut short. Their sacrifices have shaped our nation’s history and safeguarded the freedoms and values we hold dear.

As we fire up our grills, head to the water, or enjoy time with loved ones this Memorial Day, I urge each of us to pause and remember these heroes. They have given their lives to protect ours, and their sacrifices must not be forgotten.

I encourage all citizens to participate in local Memorial Day ceremonies, visit local veteran memorials or simply take a moment of silence when you gaze upon a flag in their honor. Let us ensure that their sacrifices continue to be acknowledged and appreciated.

Memorial Day is a call to remember, to honor, and to reflect. It is a reminder that our freedom is not free. So, let us use this Memorial Day as a beacon of gratitude for those who have paid the highest price for our liberties.

Gary Sakuma

Bainbridge